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About 2015 Kalashtami Date in Uttar Pradesh, India

Also known as Bhairava Ashtami, BhairavBhairavAlso known as Kala Bhairava, Bhairava is the manifestation of Lord Shiva... Jayanti, Kala-Bhairava Ashtami, Kalashtami is celebrated on the eight date of every dark lunar fortnight in the name of Lord Bhairav (manifestation of Shiva, the destroyer). The most auspicious and powerful Kalashtami is the one that falls in the month of Margashirsha (November-December), according to Hindu calendar. It is believed that Kala Bhairav came on the earth on this very day and he was the most destructive form of Shiva. The day is considered very lucky and powerful for those who practice tantra siddhi (kind of spiritual practice and meditation).

The day is celebrated with great zeal and zest in the hills of Vaishno Devi, located in Kashmir. An image of the deity is made up of gold and is immersed in water filled in a brass pot. People visit the temple and also give gifts to pandits (scholar who is master of the four Vedic scriptures).

Such grand celebration is also a part of temple of Bhairava located in Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) where the deity is adorned with garland of silver skulls.

Significance

People who observe fast on this day get relief from fears of ghosts and evil spirits, thus keeping paranormal activities at bay. They attain a healthy life, free of diseases and other health related issues. It is also believed that fasting on this day can delay untimely or early death, thus providing a long life. The devotee cherishes success in both personal and professional life.

Kala means time, thus Kala Bhairava is also considered the God of time. He affects and controls the concept of time and the planetary movements. Thus praying to him can bring good time in one’s life. By observing the fast, one can alter his bad time period and have a prosperous life by the grace of God. He also helps in getting rid of past sins and reduces suffering in the present times.

Chanting Kalabhairava Ashtakam is also very beneficial. It is a hymn of eight verses which provides knowledge and liberation. It gives strength to walk on the path of righteousness. It also destroys all negative thoughts like lust, anger, greed, jealousy etc. It also takes away grief, misery, depression and attachment of worldly desires from one’s life. Repeating this hymn 108 times a day can make the life of a devotee free from troubles and dangers as it results in enlightenment of one’s soul.